The 90 day comment period that the USGA provided for feedback on the proposal to ban anchoring the putter has now closed - and the comments, they came a plenty. Both the USGA and the R&A released statements Friday morning. A final decision from both organizations is expected in the Spring.

The PGA of America and the PGA Tour have both expressed opposition to any proposed ban.

USGA Statement

"The 90-day comment period on proposed Rule 14-1b has been very constructive and we appreciate the thoughtfulness of everyone who offered feedback. We received comments, questions and suggestions from recreational golfers, golf professionals and organizations representing many segments of the golf community. The discussion has been informative and serves as a strong reminder of just how passionate golfers are about the game - no matter their position on this specific issue."

"For well over a year, the golf community has engaged in a healthy and spirited discussion about anchoring, as well as other important issues confronting the game. Throughout this period, we have worked to explain the intent of Rule 14-1b, which aims to clarify and preserve the traditional and essential nature of the golf stroke that has helped to make golf a unique and enjoyable game of skill and challenge for centuries."

"As the comment period comes to a close, we will continue to review and evaluate the feedback that we have received. As we have throughout this process, we will continue to confer with the R&A in our work to reach a final resolution on this matter."

R&A statement:

“Anchoring has been a polarising issue in our sport and despite having weighed the matter thoroughly before making the proposal, we believed it was important to give stakeholders in the game the opportunity to air their views. Our consultation period has generated a number of considered responses which have continued to arrive right up to the deadline. We appreciate those responses and will take time to review and evaluate them.

"We note that this has proved particularly sensitive in the United States, while the proposed rule change has been received more favourably across the international golfing community. As we have throughout this process, we will work closely with the USGA in moving towards a final resolution."

Comments

Jon908584

3/1/2013

I suspect that the big battalions of business are on the side of those who are in favour of anchoring. For that reason alone I am for legislation mandating that only the 'short stick' being legal. If players cannot putt as well as others they should seek tuition and practice more.